Representing modernity, corporate prestige and architectural vision, high-rise buildings are the temples of today’s world. But as spectacular – and practical – as they can be, they come with distinct safety challenges, particularly when it comes to fire risks.
In his article, we’ll look at the safety challenges that high-rise buildings face and how fire-resistant glazing systems are an essential part of the security equation. Lastly, we’ll look at how Alufire can help keep these high-rises safe without compromising their design aesthetic.
What is a high-rise building?
The definition of a high-rise building varies by country. In Germany, for example, a high-rise is defined as any building that’s at least 22 metres tall, while in Belgium it’s 25 metres tall. In general, however, buildings that are at least seven storeys or 18 metres tall fall into the category.
It’s this height, of course, along with occupant density and structural complexity, that make high-rises so potentially dangerous in the event of a fire.
What fire safety challenges do high-rises face?
There are three main safety issues associated with high-rises:
Fire and smoke spread quickly
The vertical design of these structures – their stairwells, elevator shafts and duct systems – create natural pathways for flames and toxic fumes to move between floors. This has led to numerous devastating outcomes. In 1980, for instance, the MGM Grand Fire in Las Vegas claimed 85 lives as fire and thick smoke rapidly spread through the 26-storey hotel. Similarly, the 2017 Grenfell Tower Fire in London exposed the dangers of combustible materials, which allowed flames to engulf the entire building, claiming 72 lives.
Both examples highlight the need for fire-resistant building materials and passive fire protection systems that can contain fire, limit smoke infiltration and prevent structural elements from becoming conduits for deadly flames and gases.
Evacuation issues
While height presents an obvious problem when evacuating buildings, the situation is complicated by human behaviour and system dependencies. Occupants often delay action, needing multiple cues like smoke and alarms before responding. Alarm desensitisation causes people to disregard aural warnings, even when they do occur.
In the event of a fire, the typical strategy of phased evacuation – starting with the fire floor and adjacent areas – relies on structural protection systems to contain the blaze. Without adequate fire-resistant glazing, evacuation strategies can become redundant frighteningly quickly.
Firefighting challenges
Firefighting in high-rise buildings presents a major challenge due to water pressure issues. Pumping water to great heights requires immense pressure, but excessive force can disrupt sprinkler systems or make hose valves dangerous for firefighters. If pressure is too low, however, water may not reach the upper floors effectively, compromising fire suppression efforts.
How Alufire can help
Alufire is a trusted manufacturer of fire-resistant aluminium joinery systems, including fire-rated doors, windows and glazed partitions. Our solutions provide essential fire protection while maintaining the elegance and openness of contemporary high-rise buildings.
State-of-the-art fire protection: Our fire-rated glazing systems create effective barriers against flames, heat and smoke, limiting fire spread and allowing more time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.
Compliance with strict fire regulations: Our products meet stringent European and international fire safety standards, keeping your building fully compliant.
Aesthetic and functional design: Unlike traditional fire-rated barriers, Alufire glazing integrates smoothly with modern architectural styles, preserving natural light and spacious interiors.
High-end acoustic performance: Alufire’s systems not only resist fire but improve acoustic insulation, contributing to both a safer and quieter indoor environment.
Expert guidance and support: We offer technical consultancy to architects, construction firms and developers to optimise fire safety solutions for their projects.
Whatever the reasons for building a high-rise – be they practical or profit-driven – people spend a significant amount of time and money on them. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, for example, cost $1.5 billion and took six years to build. When you invest that amount of resources in a project, protecting it against fire is a critical part of the equation – but so, too, is maintaining the building’s aesthetic appeal. With Alufire, there’s no need to trade off one against the other.
To find out more about Alufire and how our leading-edge fire-resistant solutions can help realise your high-rise project, you can contact us here.